Inspiring Teens Magazine Features

Yoshiko Slater

5/20/2021

Yoshiko Slater - Maryland
Nomination by Wesley Tipton
Photography by Mir Valentine
Issue 46 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nomination: Yoshiko Slater, a soccer goddess, fashion-icon, and Marie Curie equivalent rolled into one heel-wearing woman. Yoshiko is always dressed for the runway, with Britneys’ “Womanizer” playing everywhere she struts. And yes, I do mean everywhere. Her beauty is anything but skin deep though, and her passion, kindness, and confidence always shine through. Whether giving a speech, posing in her floor-length mirror, scoring a goal, or staying up late to help a friend, Yoshiko never fails to make an entrance...or exit. Yoshiko has forever changed the world and will continue to inspire with love, spirit, and spunk.

Photography by Mir Valentine

What work of yours was published in which Chemical Ed. Journal?
The abstract a few of my classmates and I worked on was accepted by the 2020 Biennial Conference on Chemical Education, and the 2021 25th Annual Green Chemistry & Engineering Conference. We have also presented our work at the American Chemical Society National Conference this year. We started this project with Flint, MI, and Baltimore, MD, in mind. Our abstract: Water, Water Everywhere, but Not a Drop to Drink, focuses on creating an inexpensive lead filter that can attach to a water bottle or sink. It removes the harmful contaminate from drinking water and alerts people when it is no longer working. This research also includes a novel spectrochemical method for determining lead in drinking water and adding vitamins to drinking water while simultaneously removing toxic contaminants. As of this month, we have a physical prototype of the filter containment device.

Tell us more about your iSearch Essay and what iSearch is all about.
At my school, the iSearch is the major paper every senior must complete. It is an extensive research paper that is a maximum of 8,000 words (double spaced). Each student may choose their paper’s subject matter. I decided to write about the history and influence of Drag culture. Including the title page, appendix, and bibliographies, my paper ended up being 45 pages.

Photography by Mir Valentine

What inspired you to start studying Chinese and ASL?
The culture and artistry of Chinese characters fascinate me. I started learning Chinese in middle school. I want to go into business which is why I'm determined to become fluent. I discovered my passion for American Sign Language (ASL) through one of my close friends. He showed me the beauty of the language. I love the movements and the imagery of Sign. I plan on minoring in both Chinese and ASL in college. I will use them to communicate and connect with many more people.

Share with us your soccer career, goals, and a proud moment.
I have been playing soccer since I was three years old. For most of my career, I have played up an age group. I currently play for two soccer club teams. I am very proud to say I am committed to playing soccer in college. My goal is to become a consistent starter on my college team as a freshman. Further in the future, I want to receive high marks in college and the opportunity to play pro or semi-pro.

Photography by Mir Valentine

What has been your favorite community service and why?
My favorite volunteering experience is with the Indian Cultural Association of Howard County, MD. I have helped them with cultural festivals and food pantries, and I’m proud to say we have given away over 1 million pounds of food to those in need. It has been one of the most rewarding things I have ever done and will continue to do.

What do you love most about visual arts and fashion?
I love the freedom of visual arts and fashion. I use both to let my creativity flourish while expressing myself. There is no “right” way to do them. Art is your own and what you make of it. Painting, drawing, photography, you name it, I enjoy doing it. To me, art is the universal language anyone can speak.

Artwork by Yoshiko Slater

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
I love cooking and baking.
I enjoy inquiring and taking the time to learn about who someone is and what they can offer. I believe there is value in the unique perspectives individuals can bring to any situation. My team mindset allows me to see a group of people and think: “What can I do to help you so we can reach our goals?” I want to create a considerable long-lasting impact in the world through the connections I build. To me, collaboration is key, not only to success but also to individual growth.

Look for Yoshiko in issue 46 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 46

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Ally Smith

12/17/2020

Ally Smith – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Vicki Smith
Photography by Naturally Vivid Photography
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Ally Smith, a 17-year-old senior at Manchester Valley High, has excelled in all Honors and AP classes while assisting classmates with organization and studying. She has shown her leadership skills in the National Honors Society, Student Government Association, and Engineering Club, in addition to participating in the competitive dance team, D&J Dynamite Dance Company. She inspires younger dancers to reach their full potential and encourages their success. Ally expresses care for others, building them up and being an active listener. I believe Ally would inspire others to do the same as a positive role model for her community.

Photography by Naturally Vivid Photography

What would you most like to be interviewed about?
Maintaining a positive outlook during the pandemic and in life in general.

How have you maintained a positive outlook & what advice do you have for your peers?
For me personally, it has been a lot about the way I have thought about things. It can be very easy to start thinking negatively about life when everything is so unpredictable, especially during the pandemic. By focusing on the future and what is yet to come, I have been able to stay positive and look for the good in every day.

Photography by Naturally Vivid Photography

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
Throughout my high school career, I have maintained straight A’s in primarily honors and AP classes and, in addition to my academics, I have put a lot of time into my community involvement and participation in a competition dance program. As a member of many clubs and organizations, I have been able to use my time to benefit others such as younger children in summer camps and in my dance company. Through my involvement, I have been able to inspire others to become engaged in their community as well.

Why is getting straight A's important to you?
Throughout high school I have always pushed myself to do the best that I possibly can. By taking advantage of my classes and the support of my peers, I have been able to be successful and do well in school. It has been important to me as it has something I’ve always worked towards.

What leadership opportunities have you had with younger children and why do you feel others should become involved in their communities as well?
I have been a camp counselor on many occasions along with being a leading member of a competition dance company. With dance, I have encouraged younger girls to keep working towards their dreams while having fun! I believe everyone should become involved in their communities in any way they can. You can have such an impact on the lives of others, even as just one person.

Photography by Naturally Vivid Photography

Please share with us your dance journey. How has it helped you become the person you are now?
I started dancing at age three and have now been a part of a competitive dance team for 10 years. I have done everything from ballet to hip hop, but my absolute favorite is tap! I have had to work very hard to make it to where I am in dance today, but I couldn’t have done it without my dance teachers and teammates. They have taught me so many lessons about perseverance and dedication that I will forever remember. I have been able to inspire others through dance to never give up.

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why?
I could present a topic to a group of peers on ways to get prepared for the college process. I have learned the importance of staying organized when researching different options and schools during the final years of high school through my own college search.

What else do you want your peers to know about getting prepared for college?
It can be hard to know what you really want at such a young age, but no matter what, it is important to do something that you are interested in. There are so many different options making it important to look into a variety. Since the college you decide on may end up being the place you spend the next four years of your life at, it is crucial to find a place that you love.

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
No matter what obstacles get in your way, always persevere. There will be people and events that try to stop you from getting where you want to be but focus on your goals and always push through.

Image by a friend

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years, I hope to be working towards getting a degree in college and starting a career. I hope to major in Health Sciences in college and eventually become a Physician’s Assistant.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I love to bake different things for my friends and family!

3 Things on your bucket list
Explore the world, go skydiving, and see the seven Wonders of the World.

Who do you find inspiring?
All my friends and family are inspiring to me in so many different ways.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I am a very hard worker and I push myself to be the best that I can. I also always try to stay positive through life.

Look for Ally in issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 41

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Emily Olson

12/16/2020

Emily Olson - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Layla Olson
Photography by Jennifer Didio
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Emily Olson is an amazing child. She had a brother that is special needs and has defended him in many situations throughout their lives. She wants to be a child psychologist/ therapist to assist children like her brother. She is a motivated student and competes with a local dance team. She is super kind to everyone (a lot of younger children) look up to her. She continues to impress us every day.

Photography by Jennifer Didio

What inspired you to want to work in children’s therapy?
My brother has disabilities so I have seen how cruel and closed off adults can be to a child like my brother. This led me to develop the understanding that maybe it is not just my brother adults don’t understand. A lot of adults don’t try to understand what is truly going on with their children, they may seem happy, but all children need someone to talk to an open up to. I figured I could be that person and help these children with their problems that some adults do not have time to focus on.

Tell us about what you are doing now to help you prepare for that occupation in the future.
I decided to take a psychology class with Carroll Community college to help me better prepare to deal with people and their minds. Psychology explains a lot of why people act the way they do, and I felt as though I can relate those topics to children. I used to work with children at summer camps, and dance classes, but due to covid I had to stop. Those experiences also helped me to observe behavior of children and try to figure out why they act the way they do.

Photography by Jennifer Didio

If you could publicly present any topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
I would talk about how unrealistic beauty standards are in today’s society, because a lot of people tend to believe whether they are men or women that if they do not look a certain way, they are not beautiful, but I completely disagree with that and I want my peers to know this too.

What is the main thing others should know about unrealistic beauty standards?
Unrealistic beauty standards lead people to want something that is impossible to achieve, it is okay to want better for yourself, but you should do so in a healthy way. You should take care of your body, do not push yourself, drink water, and change your diet if you want to but make sure to not restrict yourself. If you do not want to change your diet or exercise that’s okay too, live your life in the body you were given because all bodies are beautiful.

Photography by Jennifer Didio

Please share with us your dance journey. Where did you start and where are you now? What do you love best about it?
I started dance when I was three years old at NCRC a non-competitive dance company, I performed at many recitals. When I got to the age of 8 or 9 I saw a single production put on by the competitive dancers and I knew that’s what I wanted to do too. The next year I joined the competitive dance team D&Js. I started out in the lower groups made great friends; I found a family within that studio. I tried every different genre of dance, but I decided my favorites were tap and hip hop. Each year I worked hard to get to higher and higher companies, and now I am in the highest hip hop, and tap group. I worked hard to get into the dances I am in now and have come a long way from where I was when I started 7 years ago. I love that family I developed in the studio, and how every time I go in the stress leaves my body, for the few hours I am there I can just let go.

What is your favorite dance memory?
My favorite dance memory is each time we would go on stage for our award sessions. Each person in our company would gather together excited to hear the results and placements of each group. Everyone would cheer and congratulate each other. Our whole team for most of the sessions were together we would dance on stage joke around and cheer each other up if we did not do as good as we had thought.

How has covid changed dance for you and your classes?
Covid caused us to be out of the studio for months and be not able to compete at any competitions. I had to adjust to dancing in a closet instead of a big open studio for a while (I am not joking it was an actual closet). Now that we are back at the studio, we are there for less time, and there are not as many classes. Many people who once all danced together are now separated into smaller groups.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
Getting to the higher group in hip hop was one of the hardest things I have ever accomplished. In fact, for a few years when I tried out, I did not make it. I do not give up however, so I continued working and practicing, and giving all the energy I had. I put so much work into getting to where I am in hip hop, if I had given up, I would have never gotten there.

Photography by Jennifer Didio

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
As cliché as it sounds never give up. The things you want to achieve may seem impossible at first, but you can get there if you continue to work for it. Push yourself work as hard as you can and if you make a mistake, put it in the past and move on there is no point in focusing on mistakes you made. When people make a mistake, they tend to think it the end of the world, but it is not just keep working for what you want and you will get there.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I hope I am on the path of my career and have a job that either involves children’s therapy or will lead to it. I see myself in a happy relationship not only with a significant other, but with friends and family. I will have a good support system and figure out decisions involving where I will end up living as I go.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I enjoy drawing and even painting sometimes, I consider myself to be a creative person, so anything creative I can do.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
Most pictures I see I can draw from just looking at them, usually cartoon types of pictures.

3 Things on your bucket list
Travel to New York and see a Broadway show, go skydiving, see the grand canyon

Who do you find inspiring?
My oldest brother, I have seen every hard thing he has gone through in his life and I know he does not think I notice, but he was able to work hard to get where he is now, and he still is working to accomplish more. One day I want to be as smart and hardworking as my brother is.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think my kindness inspires others to be more kind to each other. I know what it is like to have people be unkind to you, and I know I am not the kindest person in the world, but I truly hope I do inspire others to be nicer to one another.

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
I usually have to write down things to remember them. I also choose a day to do each task and try to give myself some break days. For example, I may decide on a night I do not have much dance to do more of my assignments than I normally could. I also find days I can hang with friends or my boyfriend and try to make sure they do not clash by letting people know the days I am actually available.

Is there anything else you would like to tell us?
I do not think there is anything else I would like to share, just excited to be participating.

Look for Emily in issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here for more information on issue 41

Click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Mackenzie Seifert

12/15/2020

Mackenzie Seifert - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Krista Seifert
Photography by Becca Matthews
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Mackenzie Seifert is so hard working and dedicated to everything she does. She is a pre-professional dancer and the reining national champion of Imagine Dance Challenge in Hershey Pennsylvania.

Photography by Becca Matthews

Tell us your dance story. When did you start, where and what do you study now, & what do you love most about it?
I started dancing when I was only 2 years old and began a competitive team at 4. I have danced for D&J’s Dynamite Dance Company my entire life. I started in a ballet class for 2-3-year-old and I know train in ballet, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop, lyrical, ballroom, and my most favorite style, tap. I love that dance has provided an outlet for me for so long to be able to do something that takes away all of my stress. I also love that it has allowed me to travel so much to meet so many amazing dancers and choreographers all around the world.

How has dance changed you over the years?
Over the years, dance has formed me into the person I am today. Without the incredible support from my amazing teachers along with my family, I would not be the responsible person I am. Being at the studio for long hours every day has forced me to have really good time management skills in order to keep up my good grades in school. I also work and assist at my dance studio whenever they need me and I even teach a solo and two duets that will compete on stage. I always try to be an inspiration to the younger dancers to keep pushing even when it's hard because that is what all the incredible dancers before me did.

What opportunities has dance brought you?
Dance has brought me so many incredible opportunities throughout the years. At one point, I was a part of the American Tap Company which represents the Unites States at an incredible competition against all other countries. I am also in 3 tap videos with the Jam Youth Project, another tap group. By training hard and always being at the studio, my teacher allowed me to assist with younger classes which have eventually led me to teach. I have also worked with many choreographers and contestants from So You Think You Can Dance by attending conventions.

Photography by Becca Matthews

What is school like for you while spending so much time at dance?
For me, school is still very important even though I love to dance so much. I would never sacrifice my grades, even if that meant staying up super late to get all my work done. Dance has motivated me to do better in school because it is important for me to be able to do my best at everything I do. I also try to miss the least amount of school possible for dance but when we have a competition far away, I would have to miss Friday or leave early on Friday but we only had 3 competitions a year so I didn’t miss much for dance.

What would you like to share with us about girls working in the Sports Industry?
There are so many talented women in the Sports Industry and I can’t wait to join them in 4-5 years. I love watching football and am so fascinated by everything involved specifically the draft the college players go through to get to the NFL. There aren’t many women currently working in the Sports Industry but there is more than ever before which shows that it is growing in a good way. My ultimate goal is to be a Sports Analyst in the NFL.

What is the hardest thing you have ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
I won 1st place at Imagine National Dance Challenge Nationals in Hershey, PA out of 180 15-19-year-old, and I was only 15. I practiced my solo so much because I wanted to get in the top 20 but they announced me as winning the Technique award, the most important part of your score, and I couldn’t have been more excited to be named the National Champion 2019.

Photography by Krista Seifert

What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today?
To always practice and try and inspire the younger people around you because everyone wants to have someone to look up to and simply saying Hi to someone can make their day.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
In 5 years, I see myself either working for the NFL or working for a specific NFL team at an entry-level position to eventually work my way up to Sports Analyst.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I love to travel and go to the beach but those aren’t always easily accessible, so I also love shopping.

3 Things on your bucket list.
Go to Hawaii, go to Greece, Become a Sports Analyst

Who do you find inspiring?
All of my dance teachers and my parents.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I think others love my dedication and notice my dedication and see how helpful I am to my dance teachers and one day they want to be the assistant.

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
I use Google Calendar but I also have a pretty good memory which helps a lot.

Look for Mackenzie in issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here for more information on issue 41

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Angela Cox

11/21/2020

Angela Cox – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Karen Cox
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Angela on Project Beauty: Project Beauty really made me realize that being beautiful doesn’t mean you have no acne, the coolest clothes, and perfect teeth. Being beautiful can mean anything to you. And you only. Being beautiful doesn’t matter what others think, it is what you think when you think of yourself. Project Beauty helped me find my inner beauty and express what I had to offer on the inside and outside. Social media has really destroyed girl’s confidence because they believe they have to be perfect, but in reality, those people aren’t so perfect behind the scenes. Project beauty helped me find a better me!

Photography by Erica Land Photograph

Tell us about your dance career. When did you start, what is your favorite type of dance to perform, and what do you love most about it?
I started dancing 5 years ago and I have been inseparable from it since then. I look forward to it everyday and I have no clue what I would do if someone told me I couldn’t dance anymore. I used to absolutely love hip-hop, but 2 years ago I started heels dancing and it is my favorite thing ever. Heels and ballroom bring a sense of maturity into my dancing and I feel that it totally helped me with my overall technique and I am so glad I found it. The thing I love most about dance is that I can express myself through it and just feel the movements.

What is one of your favorite memories from dance?
My favorite memories from dance would have to be when I got my “little sister” this past year. All the older girls would get one of the little girls as their sister and at competitions we would give each other gifts and help them with their hair and makeup! Another one of my favorite memories is getting a tap scholarship for my first convention. This was my first time trying to tap so I didn’t have the shoes but I asked the teacher after if it was something I should try and just asked her things about it, since I was new to dancing. She saw passion in me and gave me the chance to try a new style! I went home and bought tap shoes and went to my first tap class, immediately loving it!

How are you planning for college and why do you feel like it's so important to start early?
I am planning for college in my education by joining my school’s psychology club, as the class is available for tenth graders. I want to work for the FBI in the BAU and learning how the mind works is the first step to getting there! I am also planning for college in my dancing by going to conventions that are college programs. What that means is that colleges get to see the dancers at the convention, sadly online this year, and give out scholarships to older students. I think it is most important to prepare for college early because it makes everything easier in the long run.

Please share with us your experience of participating in Project Beauty and what it means to you.
Project Beauty was an eye-opening experience for me. It showed me that you don’t need to be perfect to be beautiful. Everyone is beautiful in their own way. Social media really takes away girls self-confidence and destroys it with these girls with perfect lives, faces, and bodies, when the reality is that off screen their lives aren’t so perfect. Project Beauty was a wonderful thing that I think every girl out there should get to see, which is why I am so excited for this feature to be in this magazine!

How did you find out about Erica Land's teen program and what about it made you want to join? What do you love best about it?
I found out about Erica’s modeling team through my dance coach. Joining the team would give me the chance to meet new girls who love to model and boost each other's self-confidence. I met my best friend, Kendall through it. It also gives me wonderful opportunities, like Project Beauty.

…

Advice I would give is to always work hard. Working hard has gotten me to where I am today. Setting goals is also extremely important. Something I like to say is I’m not where I want to be but thank god I’m not where I used to be. I think that this really shows the definition of working hard. I also think it is important to give yourself credit for everything you have done and look back on your progress because it really helps!

The first would be to make it on my high school poms team if we go back to school. The second would be to be in a music video. My last one would be to have kids because I’ve always wanted to be a mom.

The person I find the most inspiring is my mom. She works so hard at her job to provide for us and still comes home to plan these amazing dinners, activities, and unforgettable memories for me and my brothers! She is also always there when I need her and I can count on her for everything, which is why she is my best friend.

The thing that has helped me the most with keeping myself organized is definitely having a planner where I can write everything I need to do for that day and the assignments I need to complete. It helps me focus on what I have to do that day and what I have planned.

I just wanted to thank everyone for this wonderful opportunity! It is something I will never forget!

Look for Angela in Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 40

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Jiya Arora

11/20/2020

Jiya Arora – Maryland
Nomination by Jiya Laxmi Arora
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Jiya Arora is an inspiring young woman. She excels scholastically and is a leader at school and in her community. Jiya is an accomplished dancer and has performed competitively in a variety of dance styles including hip hop, Indian classical, and Bollywood. Having danced since the age of 4, Jiya now teaches young dancers to become exceptional artists and confident young women. She also volunteers to tutor children in the early years, giving them gentle nudges to enjoy the learning process. Jiya always makes an effort to share her time, her kindness, and her positive energy with everyone around her.
...

I’m a busy girl, but in the best way. I have to keep a daily schedule because I have many activities to balance, and I love participating in every one of them. I'm a member of 9 clubs, I lead 2 other clubs, I’m a dance teacher, and I am dually enrolled in college and high school. Learning to manage my work has turned me into a Superwoman- there is nothing I cannot accomplish- as long as I have time for it!

I love sharing my passions. If I had to present a topic to a group of peers, I would choose the cultures of the world. I love traveling, but with COVID-19, I haven't been able to go anywhere, so I've started creating the experiences at home by studying the culture and watching documentaries about places around the world. It's been fun! I would recommend it.

Lessons as a Leader: Being a Dance Teacher

Through working with my students in dance class, they showed me that the only thing more important than accomplishing a goal is working with your team. When I started involving students in choreography, the routines we created were more beautiful and creative than my pieces because everybody contributed ideas.

The thing I love most about teaching dance is seeing students come back each season with better skills and character. The pride that my students award me with is a truly blissful feeling.

I think the thing that makes me different from other instructors is that I plan a technical goal (turns, facial expressions, etc.) and a personal growth goal (confidence, managing hard feelings, etc.) for every routine our class creates.

My Dance Career

I have been dancing since I was four, starting with Kathak- a classical Indian style of dance. I picked up Bollywood a few years later (and now I teach it!) and currently study both styles. Now, I am preparing for my first solo Kathak performance.

I have also been on a Hip-Hop competition team and a Fusion crew that performed at the United World Games in Austria.

The thing I love most about dance is the creative liberty to express myself through music and movement; it is truly liberating.

Project Beauty

Every time an impressionable girl checks social media, she is bombarded with images of society’s beauty standards. If she doesn’t fit those standards, she may question her own beauty. Once upon a time, I was that girl. It was easy for me to point out my insecurities, yet impossible for me to point out my assets because I didn’t look like the girls on social media. It took me years to learn that my natural self, not distorted by anyone else’s ideal image, is my most beautiful self.

When I heard about Project Beauty, I knew I had to participate so that I could help other girls learn what took me years to figure out. The message that Project Beauty conveys is so important in the digital age: embrace your natural beauty, and don’t let anyone else convince you that you are not beautiful. Growing teens are easily influenced by media, so it is important that we provide them with media that cultivates confidence, not comparisons.

My Favorite World Culture Documentaries

Baraka (1992) is a documentary with no dialogue- just footage of the cultural happenings of 24 countries. Experiencing this wordless culture felt meditative; peaceful, yet expanding my understanding of the world.

God Grew Tired of Us (2006) is another good one, following the surviving “Lost Boys of Sudan” as they adapt to life in the United States. The questions that the boys asked upon arriving in America intrigued me- their curiosities ranged from running water to monogamy. Sometimes it’s easy to forget how differently people live around the world, but I think it is important that we acknowledge and appreciate that.

Look for Jiya in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 40

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Madden Diamond

11/20/2020

Madden Diamond - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Caroline Diamond
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: My daughter is not a cheerleader; she doesn’t play soccer and you won’t find her on a field carrying a lacrosse stick. She is as tough as any of those players and then some. She has had speech difficulties her throughout her life. She began high school last year and if high school isn’t hard enough, she developed a stutter her 9th grade year. She attended a high school where she was bullied constantly and got up every morning and never complained. She got the best grades of her life. Even through all these hardships she is kind and prides herself on treating people the way you would like to be treated. My daughter has taught me not to allow those who are cruel and mean, to make you hard and mean yourself. Madden inspires me every day not to give up, not to allow a society who is judgmental to affect your path. I couldn't be prouder of the young lady Madden has become.

Image by Madden Diamond

If you get the opportunity to be interviewed, what would you most like to be interviewed about?
I would like to be interviewed about how important it is not worry so much about what others think. To follow your gut and believe in yourself.

Why do you feel like it's important to care more about what you think than about what others think?
It is important to love yourself flaws and all. Others don’t always have my best interest at heart. I feel this is the only way to truly be confident.
If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why?
It would be not to judge a book by its cover. I have/had a stutter and it’s important not judge others by their differences. I wish others would look at a difference as interesting and not just different.

Image by Madden Diamond

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
I am not sure when I decided to make some changes, but I have made it a point to try new things. Since making this decision I have participated in farming and Marley games at the high school I attended last year. This year I made photographer on my school newspaper. I am also now part of project beauty and am a Model Ambassador for Erica Land a photographer. All of these activities I would have been scared to try in the past. I am so proud that I have not allowed my fears to stop me.

How have you participated in farming and what do you like most about it? At my high school last year we planted crops and picked peppers. My group was outdoors working in the fields from 4:00-6:00 three days a week. I had never done anything like this before and enjoyed going out of my comfort zone.

Congratulations on making photographer for your school newspaper! What is one thing you've learned so far? Since Covid I am virtual so taking pictures for the paper have been put on hold a bit. I switched high schools this year and was thrilled to have been included in the paper. I am excited to get back to school and start shooting.

Look for Madden in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for information on issue 40

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Eva Castera-Martínez

11/18/2020

Eva Castera-Martínez – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Leilani Martínez
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Eva Castera-Martínez is a smart, kind, mature and clever girl. For Eva, inner beauty is about embracing who you are, and feeling proud about all those things that make us all unique and different. Eva feels very proud about her Puerto Rican heritage and background and likes to share her culture with all those around her. Being true to ourselves and not pretending to be who we are not is what makes us all beautiful inside and out.

What would you most like to be interviewed about?
I would like to be interviewed on inner and outer beauty and how social media ruins teens mental health.

How do you feel about inner and outer beauty, and why do you feel it's important for people to understand the difference within themselves?
I feel it’s important because you should know that you are different and you should be able to embrace it and not hide it. If you do so, you might be inspiring someone else to also embrace what’s unique about him or herself.

How do you feel social media ruins teen's mental health?
I think social media ruins teen’s mental health because on social media you see all these people who you might think are “prettier” than you and you need to look exactly like them. This can make you think that you are ugly or not enough when you are perfect and enough just the way you are.

Why did you join Erica Land's model team and what do you love most about it?
I joined her modeling team because I’ve seen all her work and how she makes every girl feel special and unique and the thing I love the most is that she embraces every person no matter how they look like.

What inspiring things about you does your nomination not cover?
That I’m a brown girl and that you shouldn’t judge a book by its cover.

What should people know about you that they might not see if they just look at you?
One thing I want people to know about me that they won’t see is that I’m more of an introvert but I like meeting new people! And for other introverts to feel comfortable with how they are. Nothing is wrong with you!

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans?
I see myself living in New York attending NYU and pursuing dance.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
I like to go to amusement parks and go on thrilling rides.

3 things on your bucket list
Live in New York city
Learn sign language
See many, many Broadway shows

Who do you find inspiring?
I find Misty Copeland inspiring because she is a dancer of color and she started to dance at an older age. She shows me that I can do anything I want if I you put my mind to it.

Look for Eva in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here for more information on issue 40

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Gabrielle Stephenson

11/18/2020

Gabrielle Stephenson - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Emily Stephenson
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

I am Gabi. I feel that inner beauty is more important than outer beauty. There are many factors to a person that create inner beauty. Here are some of the things that make me beautiful: kindness, respect, modesty, purity, generosity, humility, honesty, and commitment. I do enjoy makeup and hair, but it’s not as important as feeling beautiful within. Some people feel outer beauty is more important but that is not accurate. I feel the type of friend I am, and the type of daughter I am, matters more.

I started ballet as a little girl, maybe 4 years old. Then I realized ballet was not for me and I was more of a hip hop/jazz kind of girl. I then joined another dance company, and I did a recital with them which really got me more excited about dance. About 3 years ago, I joined my current dance company, Next Level Studio, and I have been on their competition team ever since, doing jazz, poms, and hip hop!

I started modeling as a Teen Ambassador for Erica Land this past Summer. I did an individual shoot which was fun. It was the first time I really had professional photos taken. Erica makes the experience ten times better! I have made a bunch of new friends on the team too! Some of my favorite photo shoots were Project Beauty, the sunflower field shoot, and the paint shoot where we threw paint at each other and took pictures!

I have loved cooking for years! I first got started when my grandma used to make chicken soup with me. I often make dinner for my family, such as lamb stew, chicken, beef and shrimp kebabs, and tostadas (influenced by my Mexican au pairs!) I would tell others who want to try cooking, to be open to trying different types of foods! Go out of your comfort zone and put a lot of seasoning on your food!

A friend is someone that supports you and loves you no matter what, and isn't in the relationship just to compete with you. In the past, I have seen kids brag about themselves, and be rude to people that are supposedly their friends. That is not the point of a friend. We should be loved for who we are. Also, never change just because someone else thinks you should!

My bucket list: I want to travel to Italy and Africa, and I want to travel with my friends when I am old enough! I like to go to pretty places, experience their culture and eat their foods!

In 5 years, I see myself heading to college! I would like to go to school in California, because I like warm weather and the beach! I also see myself modeling and exploring a career in interior decorating. I like the artistic aspect of interior decorating. I often help my parents furnish and decorate our home!

Look for Gabrielle in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more information on issue 40

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Georgia Kontoyianis

11/6/2020

Georgia Kontoyianis – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Madison Evans
Photography by Gray Arrows Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Georgia Kontoyianis dances at Studio of Ballet Arts and Maryland Twisters Moco. She is always in such a positive mood no matter what! She strives to be the best of her best always and you can really tell when she is in a room because she lights it up with passion and joy! She makes me in a better mood just by the engird she puts off when she talks to you.

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

Tell us about your dance career. How did you get started and who got you interested, who you dance for and why you've committed 10 years of your life to it.
I started dancing at the age of four at CM Dance Studio. I tried several sports when I was little, but dance brought me more joy than anything else. When I was 8, I got selected to be a part of my studio's dance team! This was the time in my dance career that I knew I wanted to always have dance in my life. I am currently dancing at Studio of Ballet Arts and Maryland Twisters MoCo. In my 10 years of dance it has been a struggle as I've gone through so many different injuries, which made me miss tons of dance competitions, recitals and dance classes. But, I persevere through the challenges and have dedicated myself to get back up again so that I can continue to express my joy and feelings through the art of dance.

What all styles of dance do you study and which is your favorite and why?
In my 10+ years of dancing I have studied multiple styles of dance. Including the styles of; ballet, jazz, tap, modern, lyrical, contemporary, jazz funk, hip-hop, pom, musical theater, and acrobatics. My favorite style of dance is contemporary because I love how I can move freely yet still be controlled enough to tell a story.

What is one of your favorite memories from dance?
My favorite memory from dance was going to my first competition at Kings Dominion with my first ever dance team. We got to spend the weekend at the parks and take only 30 minutes out of our day to compete. This was my favorite because I love theme parks and dance, so it was a win win for me!

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

We love that you're involved in Student Government Association, Peer Connection Ambassador. What are your roles in each and what do you love most about being a leader in those environments?
Currently (November 2020), I am running for my school's SGA president. We started our SGA program in late October this year due to being in a virtual learning setting and the COVID-19. In our last meeting we got to speak with one of our SMOB's representatives about recurring events in our county and our school as a whole.
Next, as a Peer Connections Ambassador I organize events for my school, compose different clubs, and if we were physically in school, I would be running orientation for new students! Both the SGA and Peer Connection Ambassador Program work hand and hand with making my school a better and safer place, that is why I chose to join them!

If you were to present a topic to a group of your peers, what would it be on and why? (What do you feel passionate about or could talk forever about?)
If I were to present a topic to a group of my peers I would choose talking about mental health. I chose this because I feel like in today's society there are not many resources being enforced for adolescents and adults about mental health awareness. Having a mental illness is frowned upon, which is horrible! I strongly believe that it's not the person's fault that they have the mental illness, and the environment around them has to help them succeed and preserve through the challenges.

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

3 Things on your bucket list
Visit the Northern Lights
Road trip to all 50 states
Go through 100 pairs of pointe shoes

How do you keep your schedule straight when you are so busy?
Things I do to keep my schedule straight when I am busy is to write everything I'm doing in my phone calendar and a physical planner. I color code different classes for school, dance classes, and chores.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that was not in your nomination?
A favorite pastime is painting and drawing.

How does your Greek heritage impact your life?
My Greek Heritage has impacted me in many different ways. I have had the honor of growing up in a Greek household and embracing all the traditions. I have traveled to Crete, Greece many times and I speak the language as well. Growing up it was instilled in me the importance of family. Also, knowing how Greece has impacted the world from the beginning of time is also something to be proud of!

Look for Georgia in issue 40 of Inspiring Teens!

Click here for more information on issue 40

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Sienna Ni

10/29/2020

Sienna Ni - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Dana Ni
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Sienna Ni is a high school freshman who uses her love of dance to inspire others. She was one of the few 8th graders on her school system's All-County Dance Ensemble and was awarded the Most Valuable Pom by her Poms team due to her leadership, confidence, and positivity. In addition, she recently performed solo at a virtual gala for the Rockville Women's Center, a non-profit organization that serves and supports women with unplanned pregnancies. Through her expressive dance, Sienna was able to influence others by encouraging emotional and financial support for women in crisis.

Photography by Erica Land Photography

It sounds like you are on a lot of different dance teams! Tell us about them and what makes them different.
I am currently on two different dance teams in Maryland. I compete on the Maryland Twisters Senior Poms team, and I just started on my high school’s virtual Poms team. My MD Twisters coaches and teammates are like family since we’ve been together for years! And being on my high school’s team is a dream come true. I was also the only student from my middle school to be on the All County Dance Ensemble during the 2019-2020 school year, which meant a lot to meet students from other schools with a similar love of dance.

Tell us about your solo at the Rockville Women's Center. How did you get it and how did you do it virtually?
My solo at the Rockville Women’s Center’s Gala was a great opportunity for me to dance and raise money for women struggling with unplanned pregnancies. My aunt works at the Center and asked if I would be willing to dance a lyrical solo. Because of COVID, my performance had to be recorded in an empty auditorium. The Center then included my dance in their virtual gala that aired in October.

Photography by Erica Land Photography

A fellow Disney Fan?! Tell us about your love of Disney and how you combine it with your love of dance.
I have been to Disney World almost every year since I’ve been born! I am a Disney fanatic!! I love to perform dances to Disney music and take dance photos with Mickey ears. The entire time I did my individual dance photoshoot with Erica Land, we played Disney music on her speaker to make me feel comfortable and relaxed! I plan to join the Disney College Program and become a Disney cast member!

Photography by Erica Land Photography

How did you get hooked on Star Wars? What do you love most about Star Wars?
I have been hooked on Star Wars since my uncle and cousins took me to see “The Force Awakens”. My bedroom is decorated with Star Wars – I even have a 6 foot Kylo Ren cutout! I love watching the movies over and over, especially the lightsaber scenes so I can learn how to use mine!

Photography by Erica Land Photography

Tell us more about Hope's Journey. How do you help it?
Hope’s Journey is my aunt and uncle’s non-profit organization that is working to end homelessness in the DC area. They are building a small community of four homes called Hope Preserve. They want to restore hope to the families that will live there. I have volunteered at their fundraising events, including making all the table centerpieces one year. Last month, I helped provide lunch for those working to clear the land for the new homes.

Look for Sienna in issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here for more information on issue 39

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Sophia Briles

8/21/2020

Sophia Briles – Maryland
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Melissa Briles
Photography by Gray Arrows Photography
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Sophia Briles is a very humble, supportive, and hard-working person who inspires me daily. She has always been a very grounded human, she is not one to boast on herself, but will be the first person to show love and congratulatory excitement to her friends and family. Sophia's work ethic is like no other, specifically for her love for dance. She thrives on working privately and in class on new choreography with her amazing dance teachers and mentors at Level Dance Project in Annapolis, MD. Sophia lives by the saying "Practice like you have never won and perform like you have never lost".

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

How old were you when you started dancing? Who or what inspired you to start?
I was 3 years old when I started dancing and my mom inspired me to start because she was also a dancer.

What is your favorite memory that you have made through dance?
My favorite memory that I have made through dance is going to The Dance Awards in Las Vegas last summer.

What keeps you grounded and so determined to keep practicing?
I stay determined by thinking about all the great things that can happen from working hard.

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

Tell me more about the activities that you do outside of dance?
When I am not dancing, I enjoy painting and making bracelets, I just started both activities recently and I hope to continue them in the future!

I know that you play piano, how long have you been doing this?
I have been playing piano for 4 years and I have performed in recitals twice a year with my teacher and fellow students.

What are some goals that you have for your future? Do you know what you want to be when you are older? Would you like to continue dancing?
One goal that I have is to win “Best Dancer” at The Dance Awards. I would definitely like to continue dancing and be a professional dancer when I grow up!

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

What is the hardest thing you’ve ever accomplished, and how did you do it?
One of the hardest things I've ever accomplished is keeping straight A’s throughout my entire 6th grade year. I achieved this by preparing for tests, making corrections to my assignments when allowed, and keeping track of when assignments are due.
What advice would you give to someone who wants to be where you are today? • I would advise that commitment and hard work is the key to success.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years/what are your plans for the future?
In 5 years, I hope to still be dancing, getting straight A’s, and being in the National Junior Honor Society.

What is your favorite activity or pastime that wasn’t in your nomination?
I enjoy going on bike rides and tubing on our family boat.

Do you have a hidden talent? What is it?
I have recently discovered that I am good at drawing and painting.

Photography by Gray Arrows Photography

If you could publicly present any topic to a group of your peers, what would it be and why?
If I could present a topic to my peers, I would present dance! While presenting I would explain that dance is a great way to relieve stress and express yourself through movement. I would also emphasize how ballet is the key ingredient to all forms of dance!

3 things on your bucket list:
• Dance professionally as an adult
• I hope to go to a college that focuses on the arts and I can major in dance.
• Learn and perform choreography by the dancers/choreographers I idolize such as Lucy Vallely,
Easton Blake, and Lauren Yakima.

Who do you find inspiring?
I find Lucy Vallely, Easton Blake, and Lauren Yakima inspiring because their style of dance is unique and original.

What about you inspires others/why do you think you are inspiring?
I find that other people are inspired by my hard work ethic, my ability to pick up choreography quickly, and apply corrections when they are given.

Anything else you’d like to tell us?
I am very excited to be given the opportunity to be featured in the Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Sophia will be featured in issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

click here for more info on issue 37

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Nadia Wilde

8/20/2020

Nadia Wilde - Maryland
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Lauren Wilde
Photography by Jeri Tidwell Dance Photography
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

The Nomination: Nadia is a very hard working and dedicated dancer. Her love and passion for dance has helped her achieve many of her goals. She loves finding inspiration from her teammates, teachers, and professional dancers. She also continues to excel in her academics and places high priority on academic achievements. Even while balancing dance and school, she still finds time to be a great big sister!

Photography by Jeri Tidwell Dance Photography

How old were you when you started dancing? What or who inspired you to start?
I was 2 1/2. I started at a studio call Triple Threat, I learned ballet and tap. I also did weekend workshops learning Singing and Acting. Ms. Paula was the owner/instructor. She inspired me to be comfortable on stage and preform with expression and passion. I started dancing at Level Dance Project when I was 6. My teachers and Peers continue to inspire me every day. I have grown so much. I am very thankful for all my opportunities.

Photography by Jeri Tidwell Dance Photography

What is your favorite memory from dancing on your dance team? Why is it your favorite?
A few years ago at nationals our large group Jazz dance came in 5th place, which qualified us for the battle. We were very proud for getting 5th place, but we got the chance to compete again. At the awards ceremony for the battle, they play the music of the winning dance. Once we heard the first beat of the music, we knew it was ours. We came in first! I loved that dance! It was my favorite memory because we got the opportunity to preform our dance again and make it the best we could! #steamheat

What is the lesson that Dance has taught you, that you want to share with other? Why is that message so important to you?
Dance has taught me that I am not perfect, and I don’t have to be perfect. I work hard every day and in order to get better, I have to be teachable. Getting corrections is very important to me. Corrections help me get better, stronger, and it keeps me grounded.

Photography by Jeri Tidwell Dance Photography

Tell me more about your other hobbies. When did you start them and what do you like so much about them?
I love to Sew and Knit. My grandmother taught me when I was 7 or 8. I love making things for people, lately i’ve been making masks. Maybe one day I will be able to make dancewear or costumes.

Photography by Jeri Tidwell Dance Photography

What are some goals that you have for your future? Do you want to continue dancing the older you get?
I would love to continue dancing. Broadway is a big dream for me! I would love to feel the energy of that stage. I’ve seen quite a few shows and I have so much respect for their talent. I would love to continue dancing!

Nadia will be featured in issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine!

Click here for more information on issue 37

click here to nominate an inspiring teen

Yoshiko Slater

Yoshiko Slater - Maryland
Nomination by Wesley Tipton
Photography by Mir Valentine
Issue 46 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Ally Smith

Ally Smith – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Vicki Smith
Photography by Naturally Vivid Photography
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Emily Olson

Emily Olson - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Layla Olson
Photography by Jennifer Didio
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Mackenzie Seifert

Mackenzie Seifert - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Krista Seifert
Photography by Becca Matthews
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Angela Cox

Angela Cox – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Karen Cox
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jiya Arora

Jiya Arora – Maryland
Nomination by Jiya Laxmi Arora
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Madden Diamond

Madden Diamond - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Caroline Diamond
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Eva Castera-Martínez

Eva Castera-Martínez – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Leilani Martínez
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Gabrielle Stephenson

Gabrielle Stephenson - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Emily Stephenson
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Georgia Kontoyianis

Georgia Kontoyianis – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Madison Evans
Photography by Gray Arrows Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Sienna Ni

Sienna Ni - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Dana Ni
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Sophia Briles

Sophia Briles – Maryland
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Melissa Briles
Photography by Gray Arrows Photography
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nadia Wilde

Nadia Wilde - Maryland
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Lauren Wilde
Photography by Jeri Tidwell Dance Photography
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Featured

Archives

Categories

Yoshiko Slater - MarylandNomination by Wesley TiptonPhotography by Mir ValentineIssue 46 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

​Ally Smith – MarylandInterview by Inspiring TeensNomination by Vicki SmithPhotography by Naturally Vivid PhotographyIssue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Emily Olson - MarylandInterview by Inspiring TeensNomination by Layla OlsonPhotography by Jennifer DidioIssue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Mackenzie Seifert - MarylandInterview by Inspiring TeensNomination by Krista SeifertPhotography by Becca MatthewsIssue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Angela Cox – MarylandInterview by Inspiring TeensNomination by Karen CoxPhotography by Erica Land PhotographyIssue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Jiya Arora – MarylandNomination by Jiya Laxmi AroraPhotography by Erica Land PhotographyIssue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Madden Diamond - MarylandInterview by Inspiring TeensNomination by Caroline DiamondPhotography by Erica Land PhotographyIssue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Eva Castera-Martínez – MarylandInterview by Inspiring TeensNomination by Leilani MartínezPhotography by Erica Land PhotographyIssue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Gabrielle Stephenson - MarylandInterview by Inspiring TeensNomination by Emily StephensonPhotography by Erica Land PhotographyIssue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Georgia Kontoyianis – MarylandInterview by Inspiring TeensNomination by Madison EvansPhotography by Gray Arrows PhotographyIssue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Sienna Ni - MarylandInterview by Inspiring TeensNomination by Dana NiPhotography by Erica Land PhotographyIssue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Sophia Briles – MarylandInterview by Olivia BushNomination by Melissa BrilesPhotography by Gray Arrows PhotographyIssue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​

Nadia Wilde - MarylandInterview by Olivia BushNomination by Lauren WildePhotography by Jeri Tidwell Dance PhotographyIssue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine​ ​

Featured

Archives

Categories

Yoshiko Slater - Maryland
Nomination by Wesley Tipton
Photography by Mir Valentine
Issue 46 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Ally Smith – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Vicki Smith
Photography by Naturally Vivid Photography
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Emily Olson - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Layla Olson
Photography by Jennifer Didio
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Mackenzie Seifert - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Krista Seifert
Photography by Becca Matthews
Issue 41 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Angela Cox – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Karen Cox
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Jiya Arora – Maryland
Nomination by Jiya Laxmi Arora
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Madden Diamond - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Caroline Diamond
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Eva Castera-Martínez – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Leilani Martínez
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Gabrielle Stephenson - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Emily Stephenson
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Georgia Kontoyianis – Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Madison Evans
Photography by Gray Arrows Photography
Issue 40 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Sienna Ni - Maryland
Interview by Inspiring Teens
Nomination by Dana Ni
Photography by Erica Land Photography
Issue 39 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Sophia Briles – Maryland
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Melissa Briles
Photography by Gray Arrows Photography
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine

Nadia Wilde - Maryland
Interview by Olivia Bush
Nomination by Lauren Wilde
Photography by Jeri Tidwell Dance Photography
Issue 37 of Inspiring Teens Magazine